What Are People From Mauritania Called?

West Africa, Mauritania

The demonym for people from Mauritania is:

Mauritanian

Pronunciation:

/ˌmɔːrɪˈteɪniən/

Ends in -ian — see how this suffix works

Johannes Vingboons - Aldus verthoon hem 't casteel Argijn uyt der zee (1665) (cropped)
Image via Wikimedia CommonsPublic domain

About Mauritania

Mauritania is a West African nation that serves as a bridge between North Africa and the sub-Saharan region. Its capital city, Nouakchott, is located on the Atlantic coast and sits within a landscape largely covered by the Sahara Desert. The country is known for its vast desert expanses, dunes, and rocky plateaus, which shape traditional nomadic life. Mauritania holds major iron ore deposits, and mining has been central to its economy, with exports moving along a railway linking the mines to the coast. Fishing is another important industry, supported by the rich waters of the Atlantic. The Banc d'Arguin National Park, a protected coastal area, is a vital habitat for migratory birds and marine life. Arabic is the official language, with French widely used and several indigenous languages spoken. Travelers interested in desert landscapes, historic oasis towns, and cultural traditions will find Mauritania a remarkable destination.

Quick Facts about Mauritania
Population:
4,862,989 (2024 est.)
Country:
Mauritania
Region:
West Africa

Recommended Geography Resources

Want to explore where Mauritanians live? Here's the atlas that does it best:

National Geographic Atlas of the World

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Etymology of the Mauritania Demonym

From the ancient Berber kingdom of Mauretania, meaning 'land of the Moors'.

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